System for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk

ABSTRACT

A system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk has a grasping tool with a working end and a container with an opening. The opening has an edge. At least a portion of the edge or an edge trim member is shaped so that bulk fibrous filters cannot pass freely through the opening in the container when contained therein, and so that at least a portion of a top filter is accessible and graspable by the working end of the grasping tool.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/372,291, filed Aug. 10, 2010 and 61/358,299, filed Jun. 24, 2010, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to containers and methods for dispensing articles and, more particularly, to a system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Coffee filters typically cling together when in bulk quantities. It is well known, however, that the filters must be singly placed into a brewing machine for the desired result; and separating the filters to obtain a single filter can be difficult. If two or more filters are mistakenly used, coffee and water may flood over the top of the filter basket causing a mess and/or damage to the machine. Another problem is that manipulating the filters by hand is difficult and spreads germs.

There is, therefore, a need for a new system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The disadvantages heretofore associated with the prior art are overcome by the inventive system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk. When compared with previous filter dispensing methods, the inventive system provides advantages, including an efficient and easy way to store and singly dispense coffee filters from bulk.

In one aspect of the invention, a grasping tool with a working end and a container with an opening are provided. The opening includes an edge. At least a portion of the edge or an edge trim member may be shaped so that bulk fibrous filters cannot pass freely through the opening in the container when contained therein, and so that at least a portion of a top filter is accessible and graspable by the working end of the grasping tool.

In another aspect, the opening is in the form of an elongate slot extending along the width of a side of the container. The fibrous filters may be cone type filters, and the slot has an enlarged portion.

In another aspect, the opening is in the form of a circle located centrally in a side of the container. The fibrous filters may be basket type filters, and the opening has an inwardly-sloped peripheral edge.

In yet another aspect, the grasping tool includes a handle. The working end of the grasping tool may define a pick, which extends outwardly from the handle.

In still another aspect, at least a part of the handle or a portion of the container may be magnetic so that the handle can be releasably connected magnetically to the container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The details of the invention, both as to its structure and operation, may be obtained by a review of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of the system of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross section of the embodiment of FIG. 1 taken along lines 2-2.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional perspective view of another embodiment of the container of the invention showing the trim member.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the grasping member and base of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the grasping tool of the invention.

FIG. 6. is a perspective view of another embodiment of the container of the invention useful for singly dispensing cone-shaped fibrous filters.

FIG. 7 is a cross section of the embodiment of FIG. 6 taken along lines 7-7.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the system shown schematically connected to a coffee maker.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

The present invention pertains to a tool for separating thin layer items made of fibrous or sheer material, such as, coffee filters, from a bulk of such items, in such a manner that only one item is removed at a time. For example, the present invention can be used to separate basket-type and cone-type coffee filters from their nested and stacked bulks, respectively. Other examples include, paper plates, Styrofoam plates, plastic plates, cocktail napkins, and polymeric materials such as plastic grocery and/or trash bags. The preferred embodiment relates to a system for separating coffee filters, particularly of the cup basket and cone types.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in one embodiment, the system 10 includes a grasping tool 20 with a working end 22. In an embodiment, grasping tool 20 comprises a handle 12. In some embodiments, at least a portion the handle is made of metal and may be magnetized. The working end of the tool may bear a shaft that, preferably, diverges at an angle in the range of from about 80 to 100 degrees, culminating in a sharp pick (tine) 24. In some embodiments, the working end bears a slot on one side (not shown) for the purpose of affixing the pick element.

The handle can comprise one or more materials including metals and metallic materials, polymeric materials such as polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, tetrafluoroethylene, and other synthetic materials. The materials can be molded or compressed together in an adhesive, if desired. The handle can comprise non-synthetic or natural materials such as for example, cellulosic materials, examples of which include cardboard, reinforced cardboard, wood, layered or composite wood products, compressed cellulosic fiber such as compressed wood fibers, and the like. Preferred are synthetic materials that have a flexibility such that the handle can moderate forces exerted thereon such that the pressure at the tip of the pick is not so great that a person of average strength would consistently separate groups of more than one membrane from the bulk pack. Thus, the shape and flexibility of the handle can be instrumental in moderating the force applied by the user such that the pick separates only one filter from the bulk pack. Polymeric materials are preferred, but other materials that have the consistency to result in the separation of one filter at a time can be used.

The handle can comprise a layered structure of one or more different materials or veneers, such that the flexibility can be engineered to suit the expected task. While most embodiments provide for a handle having a major axis which is at least about twice the length of the minor axis, in some embodiments, the handle may be designed to be “pinched” between thumb and forefinger, rather than grasped with the entire hand. In such “pinch embodiments (not shown), the handle may be shaped like a tab, i.e., smaller and more compact than the long embodiment described above, for example of a circular or oval shape. In further embodiments, the construction can include the same elements as those listed above for the long embodiment.

In yet another embodiment the handle is magnetized. If desirable, the handle itself can be made magnetic by the use of magnetized materials, such as magnetic dusts which can be embedded into synthetic materials. In another embodiment, a bulk or veneer permanent magnet can be mounted on the handle or embedded in the handle. A magnetized handle enables regular storage, increasing the likelihood that the implement will not be lost.

In still another embodiment, the handle comprises a retainer base 35 having a bottom 23 and three upstanding walls 21, as shown in FIG. 4. A post 27 extends upwardly from the bottom. The handle of the grasping tool includes a bore 14 formed therein. The bore receives the post, and the walls contain the grasping tool in the stowed position shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4. Note that the walls 21 are interrupted at 29 so that the user can grasp the body of the handle 10 accordingly. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the retainer base 25 may be adhered or otherwise connected to container 30 using known means, including magnetic, adhesive, fastener, or the like. In other embodiments, like the one of FIG. 1, retainer base 25 may be integrally cast with the body of the container 30 or a coffee maker, for example.

In an embodiment, the working end comprises a pick 24 in the shape of an L. The shaft or leg 28 of the L is approximately one inch long, of which approximately 3/16 inch diverges at an approximately 90 degree angle from the handle to define a stem portion 26. In a further embodiment, the grasping tool comprises an adhesive strip or veneer, comprising double-sided adhesive (not shown), having the ability to hold fast to surfaces, for convenience and storage before and after use.

The grasping tool 20 comprises a handle 12 and a pick 24 extending away from the handle. The handle is generally elongated, having a major axis which is in the range of from about 2 times to 25 times the length of the minor axis. The handle is preferably of a thickness such that a measure of flexibility is achieved. The handle may be flattened. In one embodiment, the handle is tapered at the pick-bearing end, as shown in FIG. 5.

The pick preferably is at an angle to the handle in the range of from about 80 to 100 degrees, with an angle in the range of from about 87 to about 93 degrees preferred so as to form an L shape. The pick can extend at such an angle directly from the handle, or in other embodiments, the pick can extend from the handle at another angle, curving along its length such that the tip is at the preferred angle to the handle. The tip can ultimately be sharply or smoothly bent, as long as it is within the preferred angle to the handle. In one embodiment, the pick is embedded for part of its length in the handle, as shown in FIG. 4.

The pick preferably comprises a metallic or polymeric material. Metal is preferred for more durable applications, such as long term use in a commercial setting. Plastic or synthetic materials are suitable for applications which are of limited duration, such as for use in residential sized boxes which contain a relatively reduced number of filters.

The types of fibrous membranes which can benefit from the present inventive pick include membranes used in filtration apparatus such as in chemistry and food science. Especially preferred are coffee filters, including all types, but especially applicable to basket-type and cone-type filters, as shown in the drawings.

The pick is easily used with containers comprising folded plastic or metal springs which bias the filters toward an opening. In one embodiment, the membranes 60 are nested basket-type filters, and the opening 40 is in the form of a circle located centrally in the top 32 of a container 30 having the cylindrical symmetry of the filters, as shown in FIG. 1. The filters are biased toward the opening in their upright or upside-down configuration. The filters are removed singly by applying the pick across the accessible surface of the top filter 61 such that the pick element contacts and grasps the filter at approximately a right angle, although other angles will demonstrate a degree of efficiency as well.

In another embodiment (FIG. 6), the filters (not shown) are flattened cones which, during intended operation, open out into a three-dimensional cone. In this embodiment, the filters are paired with a container 30, as shown, having an elongate cutaway or slot 50 extending along the width of the side of the container on its open edge, exposing the uppermost filter in a stack of flattened cone filters. In a preferred embodiment, an enlarged portion 52 is present above the slot as a withdrawal gap or groove, enabling the filters, once snagged on the pick element, to be withdrawn. Note that the box of filters does not have to be opened to dispense a filter, and the limited accessibility of the filters in the container of the present invention keeps the filters sanitary. The filters are removed one at a time by applying the grasping tool across the accessible surface of the exposed top filter such that the pick element contacts the top filter 52 at approximately a right angle, although other angles will demonstrate a degree of efficiency as well. The filters do not have to be handled and thus, the system promotes a germ-free operation.

In one example, a suitable container 30 for nested basket type filters is a plastic box-shaped container measuring approximately 6×6×2.5 inches with a round opening 40 located centrally in a top 32 of the container. In one embodiment, the exterior perimeter of the opening contains a small plastic lip or inwardly sloped peripheral edge 42 that inverts ½ inch toward the interior of the opening, its interior edge being serrated at 48, as shown in FIG. 3. In other embodiments, its interior edge is non-serrated. The center cutout is designed to hold an insertion of a stack of basket type bulk coffee filters. In those embodiments having a serrated edge, the serrated edge holds fast to the outermost (last) filter, while not impeding the withdrawal of other filters from the top of the stack.

Another embodiment includes an edge trim member 46. Referring to FIG. 2, for example, the edge trim member 46 extends downwardly from the sloped peripheral edge 42. In the preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the edge 42 or edge trim member 46 is shaped so that the bulk filters cannot pass freely through the opening in the container when contained therein, and so that at least a portion of a top filter 61 is accessible and graspable by the working end of the grasping tool. A pair of oppositely disposed tabs 44, for example, extend from the trim member in an exemplary embodiment and serve to prevent the bulk filters from passing freely through the opening. Skilled artisans will note that other shapes may be employed as described to retain the filters in the container so long as the shape of the edge 42 or trim member 46 results in a portion of the opening having a smaller inner diameter than the outer diameter of the filters when the filters are not deformed.

In an embodiment, the exterior back of the container may comprise strips of double-sided adhesive (not shown) attached to the exterior sides of the back, with the exterior of the strips being clad in a light covering or film for removal prior to installation (use). The adhesive allows the invention to be affixed to flat surfaces, such as the inside of a cupboard door, side panel or cupboard, or counter top or wall, for example. The purpose of the metal strip is to attract and hold the magnetized pick in place. All of these elements together assure convenient relocation of the pick after use, attractiveness, and easy location of both filters and pick when needed.

In a second example, as shown in FIG. 6, the invention comprises a plastic rectangular container measuring approximately 7⅞×5⅛×2 2/8 inches. A slot 50 is formed in the container 30. It is approximately ⅜ inch wide and extends along the width of the box. The container comprises an enlarge portion 52 shaped as a half circle beginning 2⅜ inch from the left side of the top and continuing its arc inward, so that it rejoins the slot upon completing its half circle arch, leaving approximately 1⅛ inch of slot to the opposite side from the origin of slot 50.

The back (bottom) 54 of the invention may include a cutout 56 rounded at the corners, which, in some embodiments, is approximately 3 inch wide by 2 inch high located approximately 1 inch from the topside. In those embodiments, this cutout may serve as a handle that may be grasped for carrying the container or removing its back accordingly. By inserting fingers and pulling outward, the back may open to reveal the inside chamber of the invention, which allows for refilling bulk filters when depleted. In one embodiment, the entire back may be a monolithic piece that has two progress or arms 57, 59 that “accordion” and when viewed from the side resemble the shape of an N. Thus, as a result of living hinges 70, 71 connecting the arms to the sides of the container, the N structure is constantly urged toward the interior front (top) wall. When fully loaded with filters at a, this embodiment is fully compressed to a tight configuration. As filters are removed, the arm continues to advance the filters upward toward the slot 50.

The slot and the enlarged portion at the top serves two purposes: (i) the notch serves as a portal to insert the tip of the pick and (ii) secure a corner of a cone filter and with moderate pressure applied, extract filters one at a time through the slot.

A thin strip of metal, in some embodiments, about 5×2 inches, is affixed to the side by means of double sided adhesive (not shown), the outer side being clad in light covering or film for removal prior to use. The purpose of the metal strip is to attract and hold in place the pick, which is magnetized. In other embodiments, multiple strips are attached, and in preferred embodiments, the attachment sites are symmetrical.

In one embodiment a bore 38, depression, dimple or the like is formed in the thin strip of metal or on any other surface meant to receive the pick, as shown for example in FIG. 1. The hole, depression, dimple or divot receives, with or without contact, the pick element. The pick is thus protected from rough contact or accidental contact.

In one embodiment the pick can be automated or lever operated such that upon sweeping across the filter stack, it separates a filter from the top of the stack.

At the time of this writing, the inventor contemplates manufacture of numerous embodiments and combinations of the container 30 and grasping tool 20, including those illustrated in the drawings, integrally formed with various models of coffee brewers for home or business use. FIG. 8 shows one such embodiment of the system built into an exemplary coffee brewing machine.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, specific embodiments have been described. It should nevertheless be understood that the description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive in character, and that no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described components, elements, processes, or devices, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. 

1. A system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk comprising: a grasping tool with a working end, and a container with an opening, said opening having an edge, at least a portion of the edge or an edge trim member being shaped so that bulk fibrous filters cannot pass freely through the opening in the container when contained therein, and so that at least a portion of a top filter is accessible and graspable by the working end of the grasping tool.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the grasping tool includes a handle, and the working end of the grasping tool defines a pick, which extends outwardly from said handle.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the grasping tool includes a handle, and at least part of the handle or a portion of the container is magnetic so that the handle can be releasably connected magnetically to the container.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the pick is in the shape of an L with a stem portion and a leg portion, the leg portion is releasably connected to the handle and extends along a long axis of the handle.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein at least part of the handle or a portion of the container is magnetic so that the handle can be releasably connected magnetically to the container in a stowed position.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein said container has a bore formed therein for receiving said stem portion of the pick, the bore receives the stem portion of the pick so that the handle can lie against the container in the stowed position.
 7. A system for singly dispensing fibrous filters from bulk comprising: a grasping tool having a handle with a working end, the working end comprises a pick extending outwardly therefrom, a container with an opening, said opening having an edge, at least a portion of the edge or an edge trim member being shaped so that bulk fibrous filters cannot pass freely through the opening in the container when contained therein, and so that at least a portion of a top filter is accessible and graspable by the working end of the grasping tool.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the opening is in the form of an elongate slot extending along the width of a side of the container, said fibrous filters being cone type filters, and said slot having an enlarged portion.
 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the opening is in the form of a circle located centrally in a side of the container, said fibrous filters being basket type filters, and said opening includes an inwardly sloped peripheral edge.
 10. The system of claim 8, wherein at least a part of the handle or a portion of the container being magnetic so that the handle can be releasably connected magnetically to the container.
 11. The system of claim 9, wherein at least a part of the handle or a portion of the container being magnetic so that the handle can be releasably connected magnetically to the container.
 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the grasping tool includes a base having an upstanding post, the handle having a bore for receiving the post.
 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the grasping tool includes a base having an upstanding post, the handle having a bore for receiving the post. 